Norcros PLC, a leading provider of bathroom and kitchen products, has released a trading update ahead of its Interim Results for the 26 weeks to October 1, 2023. Despite a challenging demand environment, the company delivered a robust performance in the first half of the year, driven by successful new product launches, a strong customer proposition, and a wide distribution network. In the UK, reported revenue for the first half was 1% higher than the previous year, with Triton and Merlyn performing particularly well. However, on a like-for-like basis, revenue was 1% lower. In South Africa, revenue for the first half was 11% lower than the previous year due to national energy supply constraints. Overall, group revenue for the 26-week period was approximately £202 million, 4% lower on a constant currency like-for-like basis and 8% lower on a reported basis compared to the previous year. The company expects to report an underlying operating profit of no less than £21 million for the first half of the year. The balance sheet remains strong, with net debt of approximately £48 million and committed banking facilities of £130 million. Norcros has also announced the appointment of Helene Roberts as Managing Director for the UK and Ireland, effective from January 2, 2024. Roberts brings extensive leadership experience and a strong track record in sustainable product development and sourcing. The company remains confident in its management teams and execution of strategy, expecting to deliver market share gains for the year ending March 31, 2024, and full-year operating profit in line with market expectations.